Share this video

Watch Next

Tough new measures to tackle beggars, skateboarders and charity chuggers are set to be introduced in Coventry city centre .

A public consultation will be held over plans to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) across the whole of the city centre which would outlaw a wide range of activities leaving those breaking the rules facing a £100 fine - or possibly a criminal record.

The city council says it is looking to introduce the new rules after complaints from members of the public about a wide range of ‘anti social behaviours’.

Collections will only be permitted in specific areas (such as Trinity Street and The Burges) but permission to carry out cash collections in the city centre must be obtained from the council in advance.

Skateboarding/cycling

Skateboarding and cycling will be completely banned in Cathedral Square, outside The Herbert Art Gallery, at all times.

The two activities will only be allowed in other paved areas before 9.30am or after 3.30pm.

Street trading

Any person is prohibited from, at any time, peddling/trading goods within the restricted area without an appropriate street trading consent issued by the council.

Leafleting

Any person is prohibited from distributing any materials for commercial gain unless they have the express prior permission of the council but registered charities and religious organisations will be exempt.

Buskers

Any person is prohibited from performing contrary unless they meet council requirements.

Read More

Beggars who cannot afford to pay the fine would be put in touch with agencies who can help with things such as access to shelter or drug addiction treatment.

In terms of begging, isn’t this treating the symptom rather than the cause?

Mr Hickin said: “We want to ask courts to attach conditions to help get people in to the treatment they need.

“The vast majority of beggars, about 90 per cent, are Class A drug users and they use the money to pay for that. They are usually the same 30 to 40 people.

“We could take the view that we do nothing, but we believe this is positive.”

Why are healthy activities like skateboarding and cycling being targeted?

Council officials say they have received a large number of complaints about the activities - mainly from elderly residents.

Coun George Duggins , leader of the council, said: “Skateboarding and cycling are positive activities but in some locations it doesn’t sit positively with the people who are walking on pavements in areas like the precinct.

“We’re trying to make visiting the city centre a more pleasant experience.”

Mr Hickin added: “During the hours the activity would be banned we tend to have more elderly people who are not so steady on their feet in the city centre and they could easily end up falling over or being injured if they’re surprised.”

Asked if there had been any reports of skateboarding-related injuries to pedestrians, officials said there had been none they were aware of.